Agartala, Tripura

Shopkeepers at several local markets in India are busy arranging rakhis and helping customers choose from a variety of options

Amritsar, Punjab

Rakhi, a sacred thread, embodies the essence of Raksha Bandhan. Hence, people start shopping for it days in advance (Pic/AFP)

Mumbai, Maharashtra

Traditionally, sisters tie rakhi on their brothers' wrist, and in return, the brothers vow to support and protect them (Pic/Ashish Raje)

Jaipur, Rajasthan

With just a few days to go for the festival, shops are adorned with vibrant colours of rakhis reflecting the festive atmosphere

Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh

Those who cannot celebrate the occasion with their brothers and sisters are queuing up at the post office to send rakhis ahead of the festival

Patna, Bihar

Some students are bringing in the festival by tying rakhis to army and police personnel